If you're stuck on the East coast without power or internet-or if a loved one is-AllThingsD mentions a few ways you can stay in touch and up-to-date via text message.

While landlines are probably the best form of communication right now, many people still have wireless service. However, texting is probably better than calling:

If you're wireless-only, you have a pretty good chance of being able to make calls, though texting is probably a better bet. Texts are more efficient, generally, and I've been getting intermittent reports of "fast busy" signals indicating that networks are overloaded. When you do make voice calls, keep them short.

They also mention using Twitter via text message to stay up to date even if you lose internet connection, and that the New York Mayor's office is regularly updating Twitter with information about the storm. If you have a smartphone, make sure to turn off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and dim the screen to eke as much battery life out of it as possible. If you have a non-smartphone lying around that you can activate, that's even better. Hit the link below to read more.